Final answer:
The primary promotional objective for cough drop manufacturers in the maturity phase of their product life cycle is to persuade consumers to switch to their brand. They use various marketing strategies to differentiate their products and create demand.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of the product life cycle, cough drops are considered to be in the maturity phase. At this stage, the market is saturated, and the number of new customers is limited. Consequently, the primary promotional objective for cough drop manufacturers is not to attract awareness or trial, but to encourage brand switching. Therefore, the correct answer is C) Switch to a different brand. Manufacturers might use various marketing strategies to persuade consumers to switch, such as highlighting unique features, flavors, or benefits of their products over competitors.
Monopolistically competitive firms can increase demand for their products by differentiating their offerings. This can be done through improvements in quality, innovation in product features, enhancements in customer service, or by creating a strong brand identity. Additionally, firms can engage in non-price competition, such as after-sales service, distribution methods, or loyalty programs, to distinguish themselves from competitors and increase consumer preference for their products.